Improving arteriovenous fistula cannulation skills

Abstract

Cannulation of arteriovenous fistulae is technically more challenging than cannulation of arteriovenous grafts. With the advent of the National Vascular Improvement Initiative, Fistula First, the United States has seen an increase in the number of arteriovenous fistulae. The problem we now face is how to refocus and reeducate nurses to the intricacies of arteriovenous fistula cannulation. Through evidenced-based practice and current best-demonstrated practices, this article will provide the tools needed to improve arteriovenous fistulae cannulation skills.